We all know Halloween will look different this year, and as a community, that it’s on each of us to continue working together to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. But of course, there’s still room for some fun. While your festivities this year will likely be unique in many ways, there are many ways you can creatively and safely celebrate.
Student Affairs, along with campus partners, offer these tips:
— Be safe: As we continue to battle COVID-19, the City of Madison, University of Wisconsin–Madison, and Public Health Madison & Dane County are strongly recommending that people celebrate Halloween with members of their household only and avoid holding or attending gatherings. Students living in University Residence Halls are to follow a revised visitor policy. Visitors from other residence halls or off-campus are not allowed.
Please note that Madison’s largest Halloween event, Freakfest, has been cancelled. If you witness a large student gathering on or near campus that violates public health orders, you can report the incident online. Reports will be monitored live from 2 p.m. to midnight on Oct. 31. Additional Halloween safety tips have been provide by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Public Health Madison & Dane County.
— We can still celebrate: Check out Pets in Costumes and 4 More Ways to Safely Celebrate Halloween through Wisconsin Union. I mean, pets in costumes – do we need to say more? Snuggle up and watch some scary movies or carve a pumpkin using Badger-themed pumpkin stencils. There are also a lot of non-Halloween events happening around campus. Review today.wisc.edu for a list of ALL events.
— Cultures are not costumes: If you plan to wear a costume this weekend, we ask you to be responsible and respectful. Before choosing a costume that represents a culture or an identity that you don’t hold, think about the significance of culture and how we can appreciate and learn from differing backgrounds, rather than appropriating other identities in a harmful way. Read more about cultural awareness from University Housing and why it’s important.
— Be smart: If you plan to drink, be responsible. Review the campus statement around alcohol.
— Treat yourself: Order food delivery from University Housing or the Wisconsin Union (within one mile of campus) or make some of these Union favorites at home.
— Workout with Recreation and Wellbeing: Visit the Shell or Nicholas Recreation Center or check out some of their group fitness options.
— Find a quiet study spot: #StudyStrong on campus.
As always – have fun, be safe, and take care of each other. It’s what we do.